Take action today for equity & public health in marijuana policy

The Massachusetts House of Representatives will be debating amendments to the recreational marijuana bill today. The Senate will follow with debate tomorrow, Thursday, June 22nd.

Now is the time to act to ensure that recreational marijuana policy in Massachusetts addresses racial inequities in marijuana prohibition and enforcement and that necessary public health protections, such as evidence-based youth use prevention and intervention programs, are included in the Commonwealth’s recreational marijuana law.

Promote Equity in Recreational Marijuana Industry, Amendments 39 & 41 by Rep. Holmes. 39 requires prospective marijuana businesses to promote representation of people of color and women in management teams and among industry suppliers and service providers. 41 requires the Cannabis Control Commission to promote full participation in the regulated marijuana industry by people from communities that have previously been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.

Youth Use Prevention & Public Health Data Collection

Ensure Robust Public Health Data Collection and Analysis, Amendment 67 by Rep. Kane. Instructs the Cannabis Control Commission to create a research agenda to and to report annually in order to understand the public health, racial equity, and public safety impacts of marijuana legalization.

Amendments to the Senate Bill

Promote Equity and Address Racial Disparities

Promote Equity in the Marijuana Industry, Amendments 102 & 104 by Sen. Forry. 104 Instructs the Cannabis Control Commission to promote and encourage full participation in the regulated marijuana industry by people from communities that have been disproportionately harmed. 102 dedicates funds to technical assistance and mentoring to these communities.

Youth Use Prevention

Prohibit Marijuana Advertising to Children, Amendment 54 by Senator Lewis. Prohibits marijuana advertising when children are expected to comprise 15% or more of the audience, consistent with recommendations from the Institute of Medicine on marketing of alcohol that could impact children.

Enact Strong Labeling and Packaging for Marijuana Edibles, Amendments 47 & 52 by Sen. Lewis. Provide strong packaging and labeling standards to prevent accidental ingestion of edibles by children and to provide transparent information for adults.